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Koh Chang Island is Thailand’s second-largest one, yet it shares none of Phuket’s hustle. Until now, this attraction still wears its wild side with dense canopies hugging the coastline. No wonder Koh Chang Island can become an unforgettable chapter in many people’s travel diary. Let’s dive into the details as Asia King Travel will reveal them all through our article below!
Koh Chang is Thailand's second-largest island
Koh Chang Island, or Elephant Island, gets its name from the elephant-shaped headland, which you might notice upon arrival. Long before tourists approached, this terrain served a very different purpose. Sailors traveling between the Thai coast and Cambodia used its dense forests and coves as a safe harbor during storms.
And if we rewind to the Ayutthaya period (1351-1767), things looked even more distinct. Back then, Koh Chang Island and its neighbors belonged to the Khmer Empire. As borders shifted over time, they later became a part of the Thai Kingdom. To be more specific, the 19th century marked a turning point. Under Kings Rama IV and V, Bangkok formally extended its reach here and encouraged new settlements.
Fast forward a few decades Koh Chang Island remained secluded with limited infrastructure and access. It wasn't until the late 70s that tourism began to take root as backpackers discovered the island's beauty. Over the years, Koh Chang has undergone significant development to accommodate the growing number of visitors. At the same time, many efforts have been made to balance tourism with environmental preservation.
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Koh Chang Island is located in Trat province and forms the core of Mu Ko Chang National Park. Here, over 70% of the island remains as rainforest, which ensures a healthy environment for local wildlife.
You may find it quite flexible to travel to Koh Chang Island since there are so many options to choose from. One of the most common routes is the overland route. This involves a six-hour bus ride from Bangkok to the coast, followed by a 30 to 45-minute ferry from Tha Thammachat or Tha Centrepoint piers.
Ferries to Koh Chang Island depart from Centrepoint Pier
In case you are short on time, flying to Trat Airport is the quickest shortcut, though it is pricier. And for those already island-hopping, scenic boat connections are available from nearby islands; it will take about five hours from Koh Kood and just one hour from Koh Mak.
Once your feet hit the sand, the primary mode of transportation will be the songthaew, a passenger taxi that operates from the ferry terminal and makes stops at all West Coast beaches. Songthaews are available throughout the day, but it's important to note that fares may increase after 10 pm. Or if you are looking for a more independent exploration, don’t hesitate to rent a motorbike and explore the island at your own pace.
Koh Chang Island experiences three distinct seasons, with the cool season extending from November to the end of February, attracting the highest number of visitors due to its clear skies and emerald seawater. Despite the crowds, this period is optimal for those who appreciate such chaotic environments.
As March rolls around, the heat turns up. Temperatures consistently stay above 33 degrees Celsius, and the humidity rises. While international tourists might thin out, the island fills up again in April and May with local holidaymakers, especially during the Songkran celebrations (Thai New Year) in mid-April.
Koh Chang Island experiences three distinct seasons
Finally, the rhythm changes from late May to October as the rainy season takes over the place. Weather condition gets unpredictable, but don't let that scare you off. This is actually a fantastic time for budget travelers. Travel costs drop significantly, and Koh Chang Island becomes much quieter.
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Koh Chang Island possesses a plethora of attractions, ranging from natural landscapes to cultural sites.
White Sand Beach (Hat Sai Khao): True to its name, Hat Sai Khao is a gift from Mother Nature with powdery sand backed by palms and Casuarina trees. By day, it serves as a swimmer's paradise, but the area will shine at night when beachfront restaurants light up the shore.
The beach lives up to its name with powdery white sand and clear blue waters
Klong Plu Waterfall: Klong Plu Waterfall proves that the best views don't always require the hardest climbs. Here, well-marked trails lead you through the canopy to a three-tiered cascade. It offers a huge payoff for little effort; hence, casual walkers and families alike should leave a slot on your itinerary for Klong Plu Waterfall.
The lush rainforest setting adds to the overall natural beauty of the waterfall
Koh Chang National Park: Encompassing more than 70% of the island, Koh Chang National Park is home to diverse flora and fauna, including tropical rainforests and wildlife. Visitors can explore hiking trails, viewpoints, and beaches within this park.
Koh Chang National Park preserves the natural beauty of the island
Bang Bao Fishing Village: Originally a settlement, Bang Bao Fishing Village has transformed into a marketplace that floats above the sea. It is also the best spot on Koh Chang Island to enjoy the fresh catch of the day.
The long wooden pier lined with stilt houses of Bang Bao fishing village
Klong Son Temple (Wat Klong Son): Locals respect this temple as one of the oldest on Koh Chang. It reflects the island's true culture and spiritual side. You should expect to find only scenery and tranquility here.
Unique architecture of Klong Son temple
The waters surrounding Koh Chang Island hold coral gardens and an active marine ecosystem. Snorkeling trips here will drop you into clear visibility to swim past schools of fish and intricate reefs. For recommendation, Koh Rang National Park stands out as a great choice for these excursions.
Koh Chang Island is surrounded by clear waters with coral reefs and diverse marine life
On Koh Chang Island, elephant trekking operates in settings of ethical care and respect for the animals. You can accompany elephants along forest trails near inland areas such as Klong Prao. Then, watch their daily routines and natural behavior under the guidance of handlers. These experiences will help you connect with one of Thailand’s most iconic animals while supporting responsible wildlife tourism practices.
Experience the daily life of Koh Chang’s elephants by watching them in their natural element
Koh Chang Island hides an interior built for adrenaline. For example, we have zip-lining courses that propel you through the rainforest canopy. On the ground, ATV tours tear through off-road tracks, and jungle trekking becomes the ultimate test of endurance for anyone interested in the wild terrain.
Lonely Beach wakes up when the rest of the island sleeps. While music spills onto the sand, a large crowd is ready to dance together. At the same time, you can also enjoy a cold drink and watch fire shows light up the shore. Things are going to be intense until the early morning.
Don't overlook the seafood offerings on Koh Chang Island. They are dishes meticulously crafted to achieve a perfect balance of spices. To combine these flavors with a scenic backdrop, head to the central section of White Sand Beach or Bang Bao Fishing Village. Here, you can savor grilled seafood at restaurants facing the ocean.
Don't miss Koh Chang's perfectly spiced seafood
Koh Chang Island has the right mix of raw nature and necessary comfort. What’s more, you will get all sceneries without any chaos. We hope our guide can inspire you to see them with your bare eyes. Whenever you’re ready, Asia King Travel is here to help you plan a perfect Thailand tour. Contact us today and let the adventure begin!
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